According to the U.S. Census Bureau, in 2009 the state of Virginia had an estimated population of almost 8,000,000 people. Although it is a small state, there is still enough people to support starting a small business in Virginia, especially if you live in one of the more populated cities in the state such a Virginia Beach, Norfolk, Chesapeake, Arlington or Richmond. These top five most populated cities in Virginia each have more than 180,000 residents which makes for a substantial amount of potential customers for any business.

Decide what small business in Virginia you want to start. The best kind of business to start is one that you have a genuine interest for. Starting a company about a product or service you are passionate about will give you a better chance at success. Generally people who start a business in a field they are passionate about, tend to work harder and not see it as work but rather as a labor of love.

Secure a location for your business. Whether you are starting a home business or one where you need to lease space outside the home, securing a definite location for your business is imperative to your success. If it’s a home business, designate a specific room or area where you will conduct the day to day activities of running your business. If you need to lease space outside of the home, get connected with a Virginia real estate agent that can administer the process of securing a location for your business.

Obtain a business license for your business in Virginia. Depending on where you live in Virginia, you can get information from either your city or county government offices on how to acquire a business license. A representative from these offices will be able to point you to the right department. You will need to fill out a short application and submit it with an application fee.

Market your small business in Virginia. Pass out business cards, postcards and fliers with information about your business on them. Let family and friends no about your new business. Set up a website with your products or services on it to develop an internet presence for your company.